Did Buddhist Summit Delegates Visit Exhibition of Holy Relics After R-Day Parade?
Synopsis
Key Takeaways
New Delhi, Jan 27 (NationPress) Following their attendance at the Republic Day Parade, delegates from the Global Buddhist Summit made their way to the Qila Rai Pithora Cultural Complex in southern Delhi to offer prayers before the Holy relics of the Buddha, as confirmed by an official on Monday.
The Holy relics are part of an exhibition that was inaugurated by Prime Minister Narendra Modi on January 3.
A total of 250 delegates, both from India and abroad, dedicated more than two hours to exploring the exhibition of the Piprawah relics. They were informed about India's efforts to repatriate the reliquaries of the Buddha that were taken from the country in 1898 and to reunite them with their counterparts.
Many delegates were deeply moved by their visit to the relic museum and received blessings. Some even participated in chanting before the holy relics, enveloped in a peaceful atmosphere.
“We feel incredibly fortunate to have this rare chance to receive blessings from the relics of Shakyamuni and to witness the extensive collection,” remarked a senior sangha member.
Another delegate shared, “This was an unexpected spiritual aspect of the GBS, but we are grateful for it.”
The organizers of the GBS had kept this visit a surprise to blend academic and philosophical discussions with a spiritual encounter.
Another notable event during the Global Buddhist Summit was the attendance of around 60 monks from various countries at the Republic Day parade on January 26.
The sight of monks amidst displays of military equipment and troops added a solemn tone to the occasion.
While India showcased its military strength, the presence of the revered monks and nuns symbolized peace and compassion, sending a powerful message that solutions to global issues can be found through the path of Dhamma, as often stated by our esteemed Prime Minister.
“It was an exhilarating experience,” expressed a monk. After the parade, three nuns from Vietnam requested to remain as Prime Minister Narendra Modi walked by, eager to greet him. Although the rest of the group departed, the International Buddhist Confederation staff accommodated their request.
Later, they expressed joy at having seen the Prime Minister up close, capturing several photographs to remember the special moment and share their experience with others upon returning. “This was a once-in-a-lifetime experience for me,” one nun exclaimed.